91 • Full Sail Brewing Co. Slipknot Imperial IPA.
Hazy amber color. Complex aromas of peach butter on banana bread, tangerine marmalade and delicate spice are somewhat reminiscent of weizen bock and follow through on a round, supple entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-full body with great depth and balance. Finishes with a long resonant wave of piney, minty and herbal hops, pink peppercorns, and dried kumquats. A very serious beer that demands contemplative sipping like a Belgian triple would. (tasted on Mar-03-2010)

84 • The Boston Beer Co. Samuel Adams Longshot Double IPA.
Curious aromas of singed rice cake dusted with cocoa, grilled peaches and oranges, and toasted date bread have a soy accent and follow through on a round, satiny entry to a dry-yet-fruity full body with alternating impressive of savory meat and melted chocolate covered raisin notes. Finishes with a grilled citrus and roasted soy fade with a hint of mint leaf. Different. (tasted on Mar-03-2010)